TracesOfWar needs your help! Every euro, pound or dollar you contribute greatly supports the continuation of this website. Go to stiwot.nl and donate!

Jaroš, Otakar

Date of birth:
August 1st, 1912 (Louny, Czechoslowakia)
Date of death:
March 8th, 1943 (Sokolovo, Soviet Union)
Buried on:
Mass Grave Czechoslovak & Russian Soldiers
Nationality:
Czechoslovakian (1918 - 1948, Republic)

Biography

Jaroš was born as a Slovakian citizen. After the Germans occupied Czechoslovakia, he left for the Soviet Union. He was a member of the 1st Independent Battalion with the the Ceskoslovensky Armadi Sbov v SSSR, 1. (First Czechoslovakian Army). First Lieutenant Otakar Jaroš was apolitical. He distinguished himself during the liberation of Kharkov in 1943. During the fighting’s in the town of Sokolovo he was killed, but became the first foreigner to be awarded the Hero of the Soviet Union for bravery in battle.

Do you have more information about this person? Inform us!

Period:
Second World War (1939-1945)
Awarded on:
March 13th, 1943
Ceskoslovenský válecný kríž 1939
Period:
Second World War (1939-1945)
Awarded on:
April 18th, 1943

Posthumously awarded
Medal
Period:
Second World War (1939-1945)
Awarded on:
April 18th, 1943

Posthumously awarded
Orden Lenina
Period:
Second World War (1939-1945)
Awarded on:
1948

Posthumously awarded
Ceskoslovenský rád Bilého lva, 1st Class
Period:
Second World War (1939-1945)
Awarded on:
March 8th, 1948

Posthumously awarded
Sokolovská pametni medaile

Sources